TWO music festivals held in Gwynedd won prizes at the National Outdoor Events Association’s annual awards.

The Production Partnership award went to Gwynedd Council and BBC Radio 1 for the Radio 1 Big Weekend.

The event was staged in the grounds of the Faenol estate last May and attracted 40,000 revellers from across the UK to enjoy performances from Alicia Keys, Cheryl Cole and Florence and the Machine.

Gwynedd Council staff worked closely with the BBC to ensure the success of the event.

The fourth annual Gwyl Gardd Goll scooped the Small Event of the Year award.

The event, which translates as the Lost Garden Festival, was held at the Faenol in July.

Hundreds of people heard music from Race Horses, Mr Huw and Yr Ods.

Gwynedd Council leader Dyfed Edwards said: “We are delighted two festivals held here in Gwynedd have been given these important awards.

“It is testament that Gwynedd can host all sorts of festivals and cultural events and cater to all tastes. It goes without saying how important the economic benefits of hosting such events are to the area.

“From smaller more intimate gatherings to major events which draw in thousands of people – Gwynedd has proven itself able to draw on its natural resources and use people’s talents to create the right atmosphere, whatever the occasion.

“The NOEA judging panel praised these two events for the quality of their offer, good all round management skills, together with sound working practises and strong partnerships, which deliver two very high quality events worthy of these prestigious awards.”